In South Korea, a unique spa culture has taken hold, where guests can experience a traditional jjimjilbang, a communal spa where people soak in heated pools and receive full-body scrubs. One of the most notable jjimjilbangs can be found in the southern coastal city of Busan, inside the world’s largest department store, Shinsegae Centum City.
What is a Jjimjilbang?
A jjimjilbang is a traditional Korean spa that combines elements of a Japanese onsen and a Finnish sauna. Guests enter gender-separated areas, where they soak in one of the many heated pools on offer. After soaking, guests can receive a full-body scrub, known as ttaemiri, which leaves the skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
The concept of jjimjilbangs dates back to Korea’s Joseon dynasty, where people would lie down on heated floors to warm up. As the country modernized, the traditional Korean bath house evolved into the modern jjimjilbang, where people can come to relax and rejuvenate.
Spa Land at Shinsegae Centum City
Spa Land, located inside Shinsegae Centum City, is one of the most popular jjimjilbangs in South Korea. With 22 pools in a range of temperatures and sizes, guests can choose to soak in a pool that suits their preferences. The spa also offers various rooms, including red clay and charcoal saunas, as well as outdoor foot baths.
According to Choi Jae-kwang, the manager of Spa Land, the spa strives to provide a unique and memorable experience for its guests. With a 50-50 split of locals and international tourists, Spa Land has become a popular destination for those looking to experience Korea’s unique spa culture.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
